Understanding The armor of God

The Armor of God

I would like to discuss the concept of the Armor of God as described in Ephesians 6:10-18, which advises believers to don the Armor of God and remain vigilant in prayer. What exactly is the Armor of God? The accompanying illustration highlights the symbolic meaning of each piece, as interpreted from the scriptures. The most powerful tool we possess is the Word, which facilitates our understanding of God and fosters a relationship with Him. Another vital component is prayer, which serves to build and maintain that relationship, alongside the gifts of the Spirit. These are the tools God provides us; He not only calls us but also prepares and equips us. This is one way He offers us protection. Additionally, we have the covering of His blood, which signifies the power associated with His life sacrifice. Jesus was the only sinless and wholly pure individual, making Him the worthy and acceptable sacrifice. To claim that anyone else was sinless or wholly pure is to contradict God, as only Jesus qualifies as our Savior, and only His blood is deemed worthy to pay the penalty for our sin. No one is inherently good, not even one. This includes Mary and all the Saints, who recognized Jesus as God, Lord, and Savior. They would not honor Him as such without belief in His role, so if they acknowledged their need for Him as Savior, why shouldn't we? Salvation is represented by the Helmet, as Satan operates in the realm of the mind, will, and emotions. The helmet covers the head, symbolizing headship, but this does not imply that the head is more valuable than the heart. The divine order is not about hierarchy but equality. Man was created first in the likeness of God and needed to come first to implant his seed in the woman. The woman, made in man's likeness, was created to be his partner and companion. Despite differing roles, they are equally yoked in marriage. A yoke implies partnership, not superiority. While God states that man will rule over woman, the role of a king is to protect and serve, not to dominate. The man has responsibilities to God and the woman, who is gifted to him. Reflect on the rest of the armor and consider the meaning of each piece. Understanding the full armor's value highlights the importance of wearing it. The concept of armor suggests a real threat exists both in the world and spiritually. We are instructed to put on the armor intentionally, indicating there are times when it may be off. The scripture advises us to be sober-minded. This means when we are not sober, we are not fully covered. Sobriety is not just about abstaining from substances; it is about mental clarity. Stress, sadness, or anger can cloud judgment, indicating a lack of sober-mindedness. This is when our guard is down, and we must be alert and wear the helmet. Consider your beliefs and where your faith lies. The scripture states that weapons formed against us will not prosper. This means while there may be intentions to harm, they will not succeed if we wear the armor and remain vigilant in prayer. Staying connected to God, who is our help and defense, provides insight, knowledge, wisdom, and power. He grants us authority through the name of Jesus.

Common questions arise, such as whether the devil can read your mind. When you are not sober-minded, your resistance is lowered, creating an opportunity for attack. While we have the blood as protection, God instructs us to wear armor for a reason. If you give access, the enemy needs only a moment to plant seeds of doubt, emotions, or communication. For the enemy to plant seeds in fertile ground, he must first gain access. Therefore, he can influence your thoughts only when your armor is off. The blood provides a form of covering but does not prevent negative events, ensuring your eternal soul's security. Your mortal body, part of the Earth, is subject to earthly influences. Hence, we need the second covering. If this were not true, why are we instructed to take every thought and emotion captive and submit them to God? Negative thoughts indicate the enemy's presence in your mind. If the enemy knows your weaknesses, consider how this knowledge is gained.

Can a Christian be oppressed? Yes, but this differs from possession. The enemy cannot seize or control you, as the Spirit of the Lord dwells within a born-again believer. The enemy can attack but cannot inhabit you if you are genuinely saved. Many believe they are saved simply by believing in God, but Satan and demons also believe without obedience. Do not be misled; understand the true meaning of salvation. Oppression occurs when one is mentally or emotionally controlled, such as through depression or unresolved anger. You can be enslaved by desires for wealth or fame. Oppression results from the enemy gaining access and taking root. This can happen to a believer, even one born again, when they do not wear their armor. However, the truly saved possess power over the enemy, enabling them to overcome and uproot these influences. It is challenging for a truly transformed individual to be affected because they are intentional about wearing their armor daily, akin to taking up their cross. This is why God said it is not good for man to be alone; when one is weak, another can provide strength. Some individuals carry burdens from their past or lack understanding, making transformation a longer process. Consequently, some Christians are more vulnerable to attacks. While not impossible, it is rare for a firm believer to be affected.

It is important to have this understanding . Knowing is power , but understanding is a weapon . Put on your armor daily and always be alert .